Computer Security

Code

COMP3052

School

School of Computer Science

Level

3

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring China

Summary

Prerequisites: COMP2046 or equivalent knowledge of computer networks.

Spending four hours a week in lectures and computer classes, you will cover the following topics: security of the computer; network security; internet security; software and hardware security; mobile security; and cryptography. You will gain familiarity with the most common attacks on modern computer systems, and defences against these.

Target Students

Part II undergraduate students in the School of Computer Science. Also available to students from other Schools with the agreement of the module convenor.This module is part of the Operating Systems and Networks theme in the School of Computer Science.

Classes

• One 2-hour lecture each week for 12 weeks
• One 2-hour computing each week for 12 weeks

Activities may take place every week of the semester, or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a semester.

Assessment

• 40% Coursework 1: Individual 2000 word report based on attack and defence lab work
• 60% Exam 1 (1-hour): 1 hour written examination

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

 •An understanding of security issues associated with networked computers.
 •An appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of available security techniques.
 •Experience of the use of such techniques in a protected networked environment.

Intellectual Skills:
 •The ability to think independently while giving due weight to the arguments of others.
 •The ability to understand complex security issues and relate them to specific situations.

Professional Skills:
 •Enhanced systems programming skills.
 •The ability to evaluate and select appropriate security techniques.

Transferable Skills:
 •The ability to work as part of a team to solve real security problems.
 •An enhanced ability to produce detailed reports.

Conveners

• Dr Dave Towey